Jefferson City, Missouri - With heavy rain forecasted across the state over the next few days, the Missouri Department of Transportation cautions motorists that some state routes are expected to close due to flooding.  The already saturated creeks and streams are expected to rise with flash flooding conditions across the state.

Current road closures are posted on the department's Traveler Information Map, located at http://www.modot.org/. The majority of flooded roadways are expected on lettered and numbered routes with low traffic volumes.

"MoDOT crews are closely monitoring roadways and are prepared for more temporary closures as the rivers across the state continue to rise," said MoDOT State Maintenance Engineer Beth Wright. "We encourage travelers to visit our Traveler Information Map before hitting the road to check the latest road conditions and closures."

MoDOT offers the following driving tips that can help avoid delays and unsafe conditions during rainy weather:

•Slow down, use caution, and don't use cruise control when driving in rain to avoid skidding and hydroplaning. Leave plenty of following distance.

• When windshield wipers are needed, turn on your headlights. It's the law.

• Never move or drive around barricades placed on roadways due to high water. Barricades are a warning designed to protect you from an unsafe condition. You can put yourself at serious risk if you proceed into a flooded section of road.

• If a road is closed, find another route.

• If a road is covered in flood water but is not closed by a barricade, do NOT drive into the high water. Stop and turn around. Notify local police, the sheriff or the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

•"Turn Around - Don't Drown" as highways become impassable.

MoDOT crews will open roads after the water recedes and routes are cleared for safe travel. For more information, visit http://www.modot.org/ or contact the MoDOT Customer Service Center at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636).